Hamas has released a video showing two Israeli hostages seized from a music festival during its cross-border attack in October 2023. The video claims to show Guy Gilboa-Dalal in Gaza City in late August, where he states that he and eight others are being held and will remain there despite Israel's planned ground offensive. The footage also includes captive Alon Ohel.
Earlier videos of hostages released by their captors in Gaza have sparked condemnation from world leaders and families, being labeled as propaganda. In response, Israel's far-right national security minister has called for complete occupation of Gaza, asserting that it is the only way to ensure the safe return of the hostages.
The video features Mr. Gilboa-Dalal, who was abducted from the Nova festival in southern Israel, pleading for his release. The footage, dated 28 August, shows him in a car, claiming to be in Gaza City. Mr. Ohel is also visible for the first time since his abduction 700 days ago. Together, they represent two of the 48 hostages still held by Hamas, with 20 believed to be alive.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that military operations would "intensify" until Hamas complied with Israel's conditions for ending the conflict, which include securing the release of all hostages. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has requested the resumption of ceasefire negotiations to facilitate the hostages' freedom.
On the ground, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry reported 30 Palestinian fatalities within the last 24 hours, highlighting the conflict's heavy toll. The Israel Defense Forces have confirmed targeted strikes in Gaza City, claiming to focus on Hamas infrastructure while attempting to minimize civilian harm.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously announced plans to take control of Gaza City after indirect talks regarding a ceasefire and hostage release fell through in July. Reports indicate that Israeli operations have captured approximately 40% of the city, a claimed Hamas stronghold, which has raised significant humanitarian concerns for its million residents and those displaced by violence.
Since the military campaign began in response to Hamas's attack on October 7, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli casualties and 251 hostages taken, the human cost continues to rise significantly, with over 64,231 reported fatalities in Gaza as a result of Israeli attacks, according to local health officials.
